Further results on the development of a novel VTOL aircraft, the Anuloid. Part I: Aerodynamics

This paper presents the main outcomes of the preliminary development of the Anuloid, an innovative disk-shaped VTOL aircraft. The Anuloid has three main features: lift is provided by a ducted fan powered by a turboshaft; control capabilities and anti-torque are due to a system of fixed and movable surfaces that are placed in the circular internal duct and the bottom portion of the aircraft; the Coanda effect is exploited to enable the control capabilities of such surfaces. In this paper, results from CFD analyses and wind tunnel tests are presented. Horizontal and vertical flights were considered, including accelerated flight. Particular attention was paid to the experimental analysis of the Coanda effect via a reduced scale 3D printed model. The results suggest that the Coanda effect is continuously present at the lower surface of the Anuloid and may be exploited for the control of the aircraft. Also, very complex 3D flows may develop around the aircraft.